Gary Battles

     Gary Edward Battles, 75, of St. Joseph County, Indiana, passed away on March 4, 2025, at the Ernestine M. Raclin House.

    Born on June 22, 1949, in Mishawaka, Indiana, Gary was the son of James and Lucinda "Cindy" Battles. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother-in-law, Sally and Donald Conrad; infant sister, Mary; and his niece, Kathy Minix.

    Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Kathryn "Elaine" Battles; his daughter, Amy (Colt) Hayes; his loyal dog, Sophie; and many other family members and friends who will miss him deeply.

     Gary grew up on his family’s farm in Penn Township, where he developed a deep love for the land and a passion for farming that would stay with him throughout his life. As a lifelong farmer, Gary’s dedication to agriculture was unwavering. He was a Vietnam War Veteran where he served in the U.S. Navy, and after returning home, he graduated from Indiana State University and the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. Gary dedicated 7 years to serving his community as a St. Joseph County police officer, retiring in 1982. He was also a proud member of the St. Joseph County Police Honor Guard.  

     After retiring from law enforcement, Gary fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning a farm in Madison Township. He returned to his agricultural roots, becoming a Pioneer Seed Dealer and an Indiana Certified Crop Advisor. Gary’s true passion was agronomy, and he had a natural gift for scouting crops. He was often seen traveling across St. Joseph County, carefully observing fields with his keen eye and offering valuable advice to local farmers. His contributions to the agricultural community and his reputation as an expert in the field made a lasting impact on those he worked with.

     Gary’s love for the land was matched only by his sense of humor and his knack for making connections with others. Family and friends often joked that he missed his calling as an entomologist, as he frequently brought home various crop pests and stored them in the family refrigerator for further analysis. His passion for the details of farming extended beyond the field and into the small joys of everyday life.

     Gary spent many childhoods summers fishing at his family’s cabin on Twin Lakes in Cheboygan, MI, where he developed a lifelong love of the outdoors. He and Elaine, enjoyed many visits to the cabin throughout their life together, cherishing the peaceful moments spent there. Gary was always ready for a game of euchre with family and friends and enjoyed quiet evenings on his porch with his family, overlooking his farm, where he'd often comment, "It doesn't get any better than this." He cherished mornings spent with his coffee crew, a time he considered "therapy," followed by donut breaks with his fellow farmers before heading out to scout fields. These daily routines were an important part of his life and the community he loved.

     Gary’s dedication to his family, his community, and the land will never be forgotten. He will forever be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

     A private celebration of life will be held for family members at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Battles, please visit our floral store.